The Impact of Phone Use On Gen Z Drivers

Growing up as part of Generation Z, I’ve always had technology at my fingertips. Computers, phones, PlayStation, Xbox, and social media apps have significantly shaped the way we live and drive. For many of us, using a phone is second nature. But when it comes to being behind the wheel, that habit becomes dangerous. As I’ve begun learning to drive and getting my license, I’ve realized how important it is to break free from distractions and take driving seriously. Not just for my safety, but for everyone else on the road.

Most of us, Generation Z, have never experienced what it’s like not to have a phone in our hands. We’re constantly connected, and that connection can make it hard to put the phone down even while driving. The majority of teens today own a phone and are so addicted to looking at the screen without having their phone in their hands, it can feel unnatural to go without it. This behavior has caught the attention of drivers’ educators, who are regularly warning us about the dangers of distracted driving. When you begin the process of earning a learner’s permit, they give you a card with a list of what not to do while driving, and the number one on that list is “Don’t Drive With Your Phone.” As teenagers, we’re still gaining experience on the road. We’re learning the rules, how to handle a vehicle, and how to stay safe. But what many new drivers overlook is how much awareness driving truly takes. You’re not just watching your car, but you’re watching for pedestrians, bicyclists, speeding cameras, red light cameras, scooters, skateboards, cars, potholes, street signs, pavement drawings, other cars, etc. There are many obstacles that we need to be careful of, and it’s our job to stay alert for all of them. Our phones steal that attention. To reduce distractions and improve our awareness, one of the most effective things we can do is lessen our distractions inside the car, for example, our phone, while we are driving. We do this by familiarizing ourselves with the streets we travel. The more we know our routes, like our schools, jobs, grocery stores, friends’ houses, etc. The less we need to rely on GPS while driving. I recommend this app called “Waze” or “Google Maps” before heading out. They give you three route options, allowing you to recognize and memorize different paths to the same destination. Knowing your options makes you more confident, less dependent on your phone, and more focused on the road. Personally, I use both the “Waze” and “Google Maps” apps to help me learn new areas. But when I drive, I never hold my phone. I use a car mount, which is located on my dashboard, so as not to obscure the driver’s side vision. I also ensure that the voice navigation is turned on so I can hear the directions and keep my eyes on the road. This setup allows me to use the app safely while still being fully aware of what’s around me. Another tool I use is the “Reduce Interruptions” setting on my phone, which silences all notifications on my phone. This includes calls, texts, and alerts even from family. While it might seem risky to miss an important message, I know it’s safer for everyone if I stay focused until I reach my destination. Some phones even let you send automatic responses, so people know you’re driving and will get back to them soon. In addition to building better habits for upcoming drivers, I believe driving programs should go a step further to show the real dangers of phone us behind or the impact driving could leave a lasting impression. Reading a rule is one thing, but seeing the consequences is another. It could change the way young drivers like me think and act when we’re in control of a vehicle.

Driving is a huge responsibility. It’s not just about following traffic signs or staying in your lane, but it’s about protecting yourself and others. As new drivers, we have a lot to learn, but we also have the opportunity to build strong, safe habits from the start. That begins with recognizing that our phones can wait. As a member of Generation Z, I know how tempting it is to stay connected all the time. But I’ve learned that when it comes to driving, focus is everything. By using safer tools, preparing before the drive, and putting distractions aside, we can change the way our generation approaches driving. We can prove that even in a tech-heavy world, safety will come first.